Merc 50hp lower unit install error...plz help

[Nismospeed]

Ok, complete noob here just installed a replacement lower unit on my 1985 Merc 50hp. The carrier bearing was stripped from the old boot, so i bought a replacement and slapped it one there...but apparently I suck at this.

Its completely bolted on at this point, HAS NOT been started yet, and here's what I noted. When I was putting the prop on, there is a "clicking" that comes as you rotate the prop to the left. If you turn the prop to the right...well, it wont turn to the right. Additionally, on the shift controls at the helm, the forward motion is pretty much restricted. I can move slightly into forward, but its pretty much all reverse on the controls right now. Forward doesnt appear to be an option.

For the install, all I did was line up the shaft, the copper tube, and the smaller gear shaft at the back of the boot. Wiggled and pushed it until I was able to start threading the nuts and bolts.

WHAT ON EARTH DID I DO WRONG HERE??!?!? Its frustrating. If you can help, please do, and please remember you are talking to a noob who isnt familiar with actual part names yet. This is kind of a "Help the Dummy" book for me to read. The more details and description, the better! Thanks!

EDIT: Also, the shift box was set in the neutral position prior to the install.

 

[CharlieB]

Re: Merc 50hp lower unit install error...plz help

You reinstalled the gearbox while it was in the Forward gear and the Control was otherwise.

Drop the unit again, turn the shift shaft until you feel it 'click' into one of the shift detents. There are two, one for Reverse and one for Neutral.

Turn the prop, Reverse will be lock in both directions, Neutral will just spin freely both directions.

Set the Control to the same as you have the gearbox, either Reverse or Neutral, either will work fine.

If in Reverse you may have to turn the prop to line up the vertical shaft to the motor splines. If Neutral you may have to turn the flywheel.

 

[Nismospeed]

Re: Merc 50hp lower unit install error...plz help

Thanks for the info. I will give it a shot, first thing in the morning, and report back with the results! Already printed the instructions!

 

[Nismospeed]

Re: Merc 50hp lower unit install error...plz help

CharlieB advice for the win. Thanks a bunch. I had to take a minute to figure out how to click it into gear, but once I did, I got it into neutral and slapped it right in. Control box moved smoothly into forward and reverse, with a slight "click" coming in and out of neutral. The dealer said it was "bolt on/turn key" ready, so tomorrow I will see how well it works out with the ear muffs.

For all other readers of this thread, CharlieB is awesome with advice. Follow it and you cant go wrong. Props!